What Does It Mean If Your Baby Rejects A Security Blanket? Don't Panic Just Yet

The secret life of babies is something parents and health professionals have been scratching their heads over for ages. When the things that are supposed to bring a baby comfort just don't work at all — or worse — get flat out rejected, it's impossible not to grow frustrated and confused. For example, a baby might enjoy clutching a security blanket in their fists in order to fall asleep, but some babies could care less about a blanket or comfort object. So what does it mean if your baby rejects a security blanket? Do they just not need any objects at all, or should you keep trying until you find that perfect blanket that brings your baby the comfort they need? No need to panic, to be sure, but the answer might surprise you.

It is also perfectly normal for a child not to develop an attachment to a comfort object like a security blanket. As referenced on Baby Center, Dr. Matthew Fradkin estimates that half of kids have a security blanket and the other half do not. Some babies prefer the comfort of self-soothing by sucking on their own hands or fingers, or playing with their own hair, or just plain staring into space. Of course, this isn't always ideal for you, the parent, as it is much easier to get rid of a security blanket than it is to get rid of, say, your child's thumb.

The bottom line is this: you do not need to try to force an attachment object on your child. If your baby takes to something in particular that brings them comfort, great. There is no reason to buy different brands of blankets or to try different colors or patterns until your baby lands on Mr. Right Blanket. They'll know what's best for them and react accordingly.